India shows interest in FTA negotiations with African countries

New Delhi, June 9 (KNN) India is open to FTA negotiations bilaterally or individually with African countries or Africa as a whole, said Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal on Thursday.

Hosting fifteen Ambassadors from various countries of the Africa region in New Delhi, he said that India and Africa share remarkable friendship across decades and have the potential of becoming the powerhouse of the future.

The event aimed at fostering closer economic cooperation, enhancing trade relations and exploring areas of collaboration between India and Africa.

The Minister welcomed the Ambassadors and highlighted the significant value of India-Africa relationship. He emphasized the commitment of the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi towards making Africa a top priority and deepening India’s engagement with Africa on a sustained and regular way.

He encouraged the heads of missions to work in solidarity and extended a hand of friendship for the growth of the African and Indian sub-continent.

“This is the beginning of a new engagement and reaffirmed that India would act as a trusted partner to expand trade, commerce, business, investment and opportunities between the two nations,” he said.

The event witnessed the participation of 15 ambassadors from key African nations namely Algeria, Botswana, Egypt, Ghana, Republic of Guinea, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Morocco, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

It provided a platform for diplomatic representatives to engage in fruitful discussions, strengthen bilateral ties, and forge new partnerships for mutual growth and development.  (KNN Bureau)